The best walks and hikes in Padova

Crest of characteristic rock formations of original volcanic origin (trachite) that emerge from the Euganean Hills: they are called 'Denti dea Strìa' or 'Denti dea Vècia' (of the Witch or of the Old Woman), because the spires and boulders resemble a crooked and disjointed dentition. Next to it, however, there is another agglomerate which I believe is called 'Sasso del Prete' (according to signage), perhaps due to the particular profile of its conformation.

The Castello di Speronella was a military fortification erected in the 10th century near the summit of Monte Pendìce (300 m a.s.l.): the height, due to its isolated and overhanging morphology, offered a strategic position from which to control both sides of the hills, the valleys, and the plain. In 1320 it was besieged by the Scaligeri but resisted, earning it the reputation of an impregnable fortress; later it was used as a prison and finally as a holiday resort for the Orologio family. The story of Speronella Dalesmanini, between legend and reality, dates back to the medieval period: she was a fifteen-year-old girl who the imperial Vicar fell in love with and had locked up here; but her family incited the people to an uprising that led to the girl's liberation and the defeat of the representative of Emperor Frederick Barbarossa, thus declaring the birth of the free commune of Padua. https://www.visitteolo.it/it/castelli/ruderi-castello-speronella-rocca-pendice-colli-euganei/

Antecima del Monte Baiamonte with a natural panoramic terrace on the eastern Euganean Hills opening onto the plain. The dark basalt rock is due to the volcanic origin of this height.

Il Corno del Venda is one of the most striking reliefs in the Euganean Hills Regional Park, located in the territory of Galzignano Terme on the western slope of Monte Venda. With its 440 meters of altitude, it stands out for its wild nature and imposing trachyte walls that offer landscape views of rare beauty. The area is crossed by highly significant hiking trails, such as the path dedicated to G.G. Lorenzoni, which offers spectacular views towards Monte Lozzo and the Po Valley. Characterized by dense vegetation of chestnut trees and Mediterranean scrub, Corno del Venda is a place where volcanic geology meets history, given the proximity to the ruins of the ancient Olivetan Monastery. Less frequented than the main summit, it represents an ideal destination for those seeking a more immersive and quiet trek, far from tourist flows, in an environment that preserves the primordial charm of the hills intact.

Monte Pirio, located in Torreglia, is one of the most spectacular peaks in the Euganean Hills Regional Park. At 328 meters, it stands out for its characteristic trachyte walls that emerge among the vineyards, creating a landscape of strong geological contrast. From its summit, you can enjoy an extraordinary view that ranges from the imposing Praglia Abbey to the reliefs of Monte Pendice and Monte Venda. The trails that cross it are immersed in Mediterranean scrub and chestnut groves, offering routes highly appreciated by hikers and mountain bike lovers. Pirio perfectly embodies the essence of the Euganean Hills, blending the wild nature of volcanic rocks with the centuries-old local winemaking tradition, representing a landmark for those seeking suggestive panoramas and tranquility just a stone's throw from Padua and the thermal centers.

The chestnut grove area

The climbing gym is well maintained and suitable for all technical levels. To be avoided during humid periods and after rainy periods.

Inside the Villa Draghi ring, a place to stop